Purple Martin Forum

Please educate me. I'm in the process of rehabbing my 16 unit house and want to improve on the "threshold that currently exists on the floor of the nest box tray. It is a strip of wood about 5/8 thick (high) and 1 inch wide that lays cross ways. What do you all use for that purpose? What form d...

Yes Bill that is my observation here in Western Pa.. Compared to my childhood some 75 years ago, the seasons have shifted about one whole month. November appears warmer and March/April are colder.

What optimun size/quality of metal cable is most widely used? I have an 8 room custom made wooden house currently raised/lowered with nylon rope and plan to install a winch and replace the rope with metal cable. Would appreciate any suggestions.

We've had Barn Swallows for 20 plus years in our barn. Established at new PM colony about 150 feet last year. PM's feed at higher elevations; Barn swallows low over hay fields. Different insects.

Patience and more patience. You best remember and keep this in mind when trying to convert her thinking. There is nothing in this world that says she must defer to your request. Many people enjoy feeding and watching the English Sparrows. In her mind one species is as good as another. She apparently...

I'll suggest that is not a immature white crown sparrow. The mandibles of the two birds are different and as they are classified in separate families (House sparrows are weaver finches). Highly unlikely to have an immature white crown this time of year in Texas

Thanks Toy for the quick reply,
Jim B

Toy, where does one buy live crickets?
Thanks Jim B

I agree with flyinlow; those white feathers are indicative of Tree Swallows. PM's will have green leaf petals usually. The date also favors Tree Swallows.

grayfox.............. I will suggest that you check out the Pa Bluebird website ( www.thebsp.org ). They explain one possible method using fishing line. This method has worked well for me at my location i.e., urban, large sparrow population neighbor feeding sparrows bread/milo etc. here in Western P...

Jarl; I live in SW Pa and more of a bird watcher than PM landlord. In my experience your chances are now pretty slim for a nesting pair this year. I would leave your house as is until at least August 15th. Tree Swallows are interesting birds too and do more good than harm. Next year utilize some of ...

Sorry, that is a common Tree Swallow. Beautiful bird and frequently around PM houses.

Good Job! Gary. How are you coping with the starlings?
Jim B